On Wednesday morning, UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson was shot and killed in New York City. The shooter, who remains unidentified, used bullets etched with the words “deny,” “defend,” and “depose,” according to police. The words were found inscribed on shell casings at the scene. Authorities are investigating if these terms are connected to insurance company practices.
Some speculate the inscriptions may be linked to a book titled Delay, Deny, Defend, which argues that “to improve their profits, insurance companies delay payment of justified claims, deny payment altogether, and defend their actions by forcing claimants to enter litigation.”
Thompson, 50, was gunned down before 7 AM in a busy part of Manhattan, outside the Hilton Midtown hotel. He was scheduled to attend an investor conference there after staying at a nearby Marriott. Security cameras captured him approaching the Hilton at 6:45 AM when the masked gunman, who had been waiting, shot him in the back and leg. The assailant then escaped on a bicycle headed towards Central Park.
SUSPECT UNKNOWN.
Police have recovered three live rounds and three discharged shell casings and are continuing their search for the shooter, described as a white male in a tan jacket, black face mask, black-and-white sneakers, with a gray backpack. Additional images from a Starbucks nearby, taken 20 minutes before the shooting, were released. A source revealed the suspect paid with cash at the café. Investigators are examining forensic evidence from the Starbucks and a cellphone found near the crime scene.
No motive has been officially identified. However, New York City Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch labeled the incident “premeditated and targeted” in a press conference. Thompson’s wife mentioned receiving threats related to insurance coverage issues but lacked specific details. Public protests over coverage concerns have occurred in Minnesota, where UnitedHealthcare is headquartered and Thompson resided.
Investigations continue, with law enforcement exploring potential threats from disgruntled former employees and reviewing security footage. A reward of up to $10,000 is offered for tips leading to the suspect’s arrest and conviction. The public is encouraged to report information to Crime Stoppers or submit tips anonymously online. The investigation is ongoing.
NEW: The man who m*rdered UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson inscribed the words “deny,” “defend” & “depose” on the shell casings that were left at the scene.
The masked ass*ssin is still on the run as details of his whereabouts remain unknown.
The inscription could be linked… pic.twitter.com/71mTCOOgN1
— Collin Rugg (@CollinRugg) December 5, 2024
